Deep Cycle Flooded (Lead Acid)
If you’re okay with a bit of maintenance and want a proven, cost-effective solution, this is for you.
- What It Is: Traditional, oldest type of rechargeable battery. Uses liquid acid.
- Good For: General use, reliable, tried-and-true.
- Drawbacks: Needs regular maintenance (adding distilled water), not great for high-vibration or tilt-prone environments, can spill acid if tipped.
Deep Cycle AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)
Want a maintenance-free upgrade from traditional lead-acid batteries? AGM is the way to go.
- What It Is: Lead-acid battery, but the acid is absorbed into glass mats.
- Good For: Better vibration resistance, longer life, and no maintenance compared to flooded.
- Drawbacks: More expensive than flooded, can be sensitive to overcharging.
Deep Cycle Lithium
If you’re looking for top-of-the-line, long-lasting performance and don’t mind paying more upfront, go with lithium.
- What It Is: Uses lithium-ion technology.
- Good For: Lightweight, high energy density, very long life, zero maintenance.
- Drawbacks: Expensive upfront cost.
Gel Batteries
Need a battery that can handle awkward positions and tougher environments? Gel is a solid choice.
- What It Is: Lead-acid battery where the acid is turned into a gel.
- Good For: No spillage, better for odd positions, some maintenance-free aspects.
- Drawbacks: More sensitive to high temperatures and overcharging, generally more expensive than flooded.
SMF Batteries (Sealed Maintenance Free)
Need a hassle-free, maintenance-free option for general use? SMF has you covered.
- What It Is: Usually a lead-acid battery that is sealed and doesn’t require maintenance like topping up water.
- Good For: No maintenance, simple to use, commonly found in cars and small appliances.
- Drawbacks: Generally not designed for deep cycling (draining and recharging repeatedly), more of a ‘set it and forget it’ option.